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What is a Nurse Practitioner?

Question:

My ob-gyn doctor's office recently added a nurse practitioner. Can you tell me more
about their qualifications and what they do?

Answer:

A nurse practitioner (NP) is a registered nurse who has advanced education and training
in the diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic medical conditions, disease prevention,
and the promotion of health and wellness. Nurse practitioners must complete a master's
or doctoral degree and receive additional medical training beyond their initial training
as a registered nurse. Many NPs are nationally certified. NPs have been delivering
high quality health care for over 40 years.

Nurse practitioners function
in both primary care and specialty areas. They work both independently and collaboratively
with physicians and other health care providers. In the field of OB/GYN, a nurse practitioner
may serve as your regular health care provider.

My 2 1/2 year old was once a great eater, but now wants to eat only cereal - plain
Cheerios to be exact. He won't eat any dinner but complains he's hungry before bed,
so I let him have some cereal. How do I break the cycle?